Malaysia GP could make shock return in F1 2026 on Oct 4 to replace Middle East races as Iran War continues
Formula 1 is considering a return to the Malaysia Grand Prix in 2026 to replace scheduled races in the Middle East. The potential change is driven by ongoing regional instability caused by the Iran War, which has already forced the cancellation of several events.
Why it matters
The disruption highlights how geopolitical conflicts can significantly impact global sporting calendars and international logistics.
It looks like the Iran War may have an unexpected silver lining for Formula 1 fans here – the Malaysia Grand Prix could make a shock return this season (yes, you read that right) to replace the Middle East races at the end of the year due to region’s continued uncertainty. Multiple motorsports news sources, including The Race , have reported Malaysia emerging as one of the leading candidates as the championship’s management weighs alternatives for the final two races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. The war had already seen events in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia cancelled, leading to an enforced break in April. Bahrain had apparently been close to getting its race rescheduled a few weeks ago during a ceasefire, with a slot on October 4 between the Azerbaijan and Singapore GPs opening up.
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